Retzer Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hess Pond Dam Freitag Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Retzer Pond Dam, located in Morgan County, Illinois, is a private dam with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.
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Summary
Constructed in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at 26 feet tall and spans 179 feet in length. The dam has a storage capacity of 44 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 26 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 4 acres and draining an area of 0.19 square miles.
Managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Retzer Pond Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, a moderate risk assessment rating (3) emphasizes the importance of ongoing risk management measures. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 22 feet, and has no associated locks. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam is subject to periodic inspections to maintain its integrity and safety.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Retzer Pond Dam stands as a vital structure within the TR-INDIAN CREEK watershed, providing essential habitat for fish and wildlife while also offering recreational opportunities. With its historical significance dating back over five decades, the dam serves as a testament to the enduring importance of water management and conservation efforts in Illinois. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and regulation of dams like Retzer Pond Dam play a crucial role in safeguarding both the environment and local communities from potential risks and hazards.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
179 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR- INDIAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Drainage Area |
0.19 |
Nid Storage |
44 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sangamon River At Petersburg
|
209cfs |
Sangamon River Near Oakford
|
421cfs |
Spring Creek At Springfield
|
7cfs |
Illinois River At Valley City
|
4980cfs |
La Moine River At Ripley
|
14cfs |
Salt Creek Near Greenview
|
204cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Retzer Pond Dam